Cucurella was underwhelming, especially considering that, like Tosin and Colwill, he only attempted one ground duel. His passing was OK, but he was poor in his duels. In fact, Disasi attempted three more ground duels than the rest of the backline combined and won one more than they did.
Enzo Fernandez: 7.5/10
Fernandez was poor defensively, but he contributed a lot more in possession. He led the game with five key passes, even creating a clear-cut chance, although the play turned out to be offside. Since the game was never stopped, it counted. Fernandez should be helping the Blues control the midfield, but lately, he’s preferred playing further forward to create more chances.
Moises Caicedo: 8/10
Caicedo was very good both in and out of possession. He played a key role in Chelsea keeping the ball and was crucial to the Blues winning the ball back when they lost it. Winning 10/14 ground duels and 5/5 tackles, the Ecuadorian was essentially a one-man midfield.
Noni Madueke: 4/10
After strongly criticizing Pedro Neto in the last game and claiming any other player in that position would have probably done better, I find myself eating humble pie. Madueke was worse than Neto. The former PSV Eindhoven forward went 0/4 in dribbles and even missed the big chance that came his way. He contributed nothing creatively or defensively.
Cole Palmer: 8/10
Palmer was Chelsea's best player once again, but because he didn’t score or assist, he was heavily criticized in the hours after the game. He created a clear-cut chance and hit the woodwork twice. He didn’t contribute defensively, but he’s one of the few players who can be excused in that aspect.
Joao Felix: 6.5/10
Felix did his best and was the Blues' second-best goal threat after Palmer. He also missed a big chance and did relatively well in his duels. While he didn’t impact the game, it wasn’t for lack of trying.